Signs and Symptoms of Nicotine Toxicity

Signs and symptoms of an overdose of the NICOTROL (nicotine inhalation system) Inhaler would be expected to be the same as those of acute nicotine poisoning including: pallor, cold sweat, nausea, salivation, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, disturbed hearing and vision, tremor, mental confusion, and weakness. Prostration, hypotension, and respiratory failure may ensue with large overdoses. Lethal doses produce convulsions quickly and death follows as a result of peripheral or central respiratory paralysis or, less frequently, cardiac failure.

Overdose from Inhalation

The oral LD₅₀ for nicotine is > 5 mg/kg in dogs and > 24 mg/kg in rodents. Death is due to respiratory paralysis. The oral minimum acute lethal dose for nicotine in adult humans is reported to be 40 to 60 mg ( < 1 mg/kg). The effects of using several cartridges in rapid succession are unknown (See WARNINGS, Safety Note Concerning Children).

One cartridge of NICOTROL Inhaler contains 10 mg nicotine, of which, approximately 4 mg is delivered nicotine. It is unlikely that an excessive nicotine overdose will occur via inhalation. Should such an overdose occur, however, with signs of nicotine poisoning, the patient should be instructed to contact his/her physician immediately. For additional emergency information, call your regional poison center or call the National Capital Poison Center toll free (1-800-222-1222).

Overdose from Ingestion

Persons ingesting NICOTROL (nicotine inhalation system) Inhaler cartridges should be referred to a health care facility for management. In unconscious patients with a secure airway, instill activated charcoal via a nasogastric tube. A saline cathartic or sorbitol may be added to the first dose of activated charcoal. Repeated doses of activated charcoal should be administered as long as the cartridge remains in the gastrointestinal tract since it will continue to release nicotine for many hours. The NICOTROL (nicotine inhalation system) Inhaler cartridges can be identified with a radiogram.

Management of Nicotine Poisoning

Other supportive measures include diazepam or barbiturates for seizures, atropine for excessive bronchial secretions or diarrhea, respiratory support for respiratory failure, and vigorous fluid support for hypotension and cardiovascular collapse.

Use of NICOTROL (nicotine inhalation system) Inhaler therapy is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity or allergy to nicotine or to menthol.

Last reviewed on RxList: 3/18/2009
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.